Beñat “We Have Three Games Left And They Are Three Finals”

Beñat opened up the scoring in Saturday’s Basque Derby with a brilliant free kick, but it wasn’t enough to lift the Lions to victory. Athletic played Alavés to a 1-1 draw and after the game Beñat admitted that it was a very difficult match. He was glad to have found the back of the net, though he lamented not being able to create anything with his corner kicks.

“It was difficult for us to create chances. Playing at home we had to take that step forward and we were lacking. It was difficult for us to get into the whole game, although we did have some chances and chances to win. I think the draw was a fair result. I’m very happy with my goal but also a bit sad because I had several corner kicks that didn’t end in anything. I’m upset because I didn’t put them in well for my teammates.”

Athletic struggled in the first half but were much better after the break. Beñat knows that not taking all three points is disappointing, but is satisfied with a draw that protected Athletic’s control of 7th place in the La Liga table.

“Alavés came out very strong and well organized in the first half. In the second half, we went for the match more and it was better football. It’s a shame we weren’t able to take the three points. If you can’t win then drawing is good because Alavés is a direct rival for 7th place. We have three games left and they are three finals.”

The Lions will travel to face off with Real Valladolid next Sunday where a win could be enough for Athletic to secure a top 7 finish this season. Valladolid are currently in a relegation battle and will be desperate for points at home. As Beñat says, it will be a final and another must-win game for the Zurigorri.